I love learning new stitches to use in my patterns. One stitch that I have been playing with recently is the bead stitch. Since I plan on using this in some future patterns, I wanted to make a tutorial on how to crochet the bead stitch.
This stitch is not too complicated but it does take a little practice. It is created by making a double crochet stitch, then making the bead stitch around the double crochet. This is one of those stitches that sounds more complicated than it is.
For this tutorial I am using Big Twist Value yarn and a 5.0mm crochet hook. This can be done with any yarn you choose and an appropriate sized hook.
Crochet Bead Stitch
Step 1
To begin, make your beginning row with an even number of stitches. I used a half double crochet in my example, but you could also use a single crochet if you wanted shorter rows between the bead stitch rows. Chain 3 and turn.
Step 2
Your chain 3 will count as a double crochet in this row. Skip the first stitch and make a double crochet in the second stitch. This will be the start of your bead stitch.
Step 3
Yarn over and place the hook behind the double crochet to pull up a loop. You should have three loops on your hook.
Step 4
Yarn over and pull up another loop from behind the double crochet. You should now have 5 loops on your hook.
Step 5
Yarn over and pull up a loop from behind the double crochet for a third time. You should end up with 7 loops on your hook.
Step 6
At this point, yarn over and pull through the first 6 loops on your hook. You should now have 2 loops left on your hook.
Step 7
Yarn over and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook. You have now completed one bead stitch.
Each bead stitch takes up two stitches, so when you start your next stitch skip one stitch before making your next double crochet.
Continue making your bead stitches across the row. When you get to the last stitch make just one double crochet at the end. You will want to begin and end with a double crochet.
For the next row chain the appropriate number for the stitch you are making. Since I am making a half double crochet I chained 2. Make your stitches across the top of the bead stitch row. Be sure to place a stitch in the top of the chain 3 space because it is considered a double crochet.
That is how to crochet the bead stitch. I really like this stitch even though it does use a lot of yarn. I think it adds a wonderful texture to crochet projects.
I hope you found this tutorial useful and are able to add the bead stitch to your crochet projects.
